A man known nationally for breeding and training fighting dogs has been arrested, the Sumter County Sheriff's Office said.
- Man, 65, accused of breeding dogs to fight
- Patrick Riley also arrested on multiple drug, weapons charges
- Anonymous tip led to a 3-month-long investigation
Patrick Riley, 65, was arrested Wednesday after an anonymous tip led to a 3-month-long investigation. Authorities said they found drugs, guns, cash and evidence of dog-fighting at Riley's house.
"There's a box and they put a cat in the box, and the dog chases the box around, working on his endurance," Capt. James Haworth said. "The other thing that stands out was a stick that's used to pry dogs' jaws when they are fighting."
Authorities said eight put bull terriers were taken. Riley reportedly has been involved in dog-fighting since 1975, deputies said.
During a search of the man's home, authorities also found 19.7 grams of methamphetamine, about 2.62 pounds of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and controlled substances. Several firearms, including shotguns, rifles and handguns, were also found in the home, the Sheriff's Office said.
Deputies said he admitted to hosting at least one fight at his home.
Sumter County deputies said the investigation was a joint operation with the Pasco County Sheriff's Office and the FBI.